Kerala tops citizen-centric reforms categories in Centre’s latest rankings
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 5)
| Topic: GS2 – Governance |
| Context |
| ● Kerala’s recognition as a leader in business and citizen-centric reforms by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry highlights the state’s strides in improving the ease of doing business and public service delivery.
● The state leveraged digital tools and policy reforms to enhance efficiency and responsiveness across multiple sectors. |
Announcement
- Kerala emerged as a top performer in two business-centric and seven citizen-centric reform categories in rankings by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Kerala’s Industries Minister, P. Rajeeve, received the Business Reforms Action Plan 2022 (BRAP 22) award from Union Minister of Commerce, Piyush Goyal.
Business-Centric Reforms
- Kerala excelled in two key business reforms:
- Facilitating utility permits for businesses.
- Improving the ease of paying taxes.
Citizen-Centric Reforms
- Kerala was recognized for top achievements in seven areas, including:
- Online single window system.
- Simplifying certificate issuance by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and the Department of Revenue.
- Utility permit facilitation.
- Public distribution system (Department of Food and Civil Supplies).
- Transport sector improvements.
- Employment exchange management.
Positive Feedback
- Kerala received over 95% positive feedback from businesses, recognizing improvements in these nine reform areas.
Technological Advancements
- The State upgraded service delivery using digital tools and cutting-edge technology, contributing to its success.
| PYQ: Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also be justified that smaller states would bring in effective governance at State level? Discuss. (200 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2013) |
| Practice Question: Examine the significance of citizen-centric reforms in enhancing governance and public service delivery. Discuss the role of digital tools in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accountability in these reforms. (250 Words /15 marks) |
